Upper Shirley Vineyards hosts corporate events and weddings for up to 300 seated guests indoors and up to 600 on its lawns, patios and open fields. The winery sits on the banks of the James River at 600 Shirley Plantation Road in Charles City, Virginia, within a short drive of both Richmond and Williamsburg.
Seminars and company events
The events team lists holiday parties, company celebrations, retreats, galas, cocktail receptions and large team-building days. Outdoor activities are part of the offer: rock climbing walls, lawn games and team challenges can be set up on the grounds, which suits a full-day program where a working morning is followed by group activities and a sunset reception. Planning runs in three steps: you share the brief, the team builds the plan with you, and staff remain on site until the event ends. Parking is plentiful, which matters for a company day where most guests drive in.
Weddings and receptions
Ceremonies take place by the river, with open sky, water views and rows of vines, and the Front Porch serves as the backup if the weather turns. Receptions move into the Banquet Room, with space for dining, dancing and a live band or DJ. The cocktail hour usually takes place on the Back Porch, where the main bar stands. Weddings include exclusive access to the property. A bridal suite and a groom's den give the couple and their parties a place to get ready.
Rooms and capacities
The indoor building covers about 14,000 square feet. The Banquet Room is the main event room: high ceilings, natural light, views over the vineyard, access to both porches and seating for up to 300 guests. The Tasting Room has cherry-oak floors, high ceilings, handmade southern-style tables and views of the river and fields. The covered Front Porch faces the vines, while the covered Back Porch overlooks the river. Lawns, patios and open fields take larger gatherings of up to 600 guests. The bridal suite is on the third floor, with river views, a hair and makeup station and a walk-in closet.
Catering
Food is handled by the winery's own culinary and events team, which works with you on menus for the day. The wines come from the estate, and private tastings can be booked, an easy add-on for a client group or a team before dinner.
History and setting
The property lies on a stretch of the James River in Charles City County, among the historic plantation lands east of Richmond. The setting combines vineyard rows, river frontage and a large modern events building with porches on both sides, so guests can move easily between indoor and outdoor spaces during a single event.
Getting there
Charles City lies between Richmond and Williamsburg along the river. Richmond International Airport is the closest airport, and Amtrak serves both Richmond and Williamsburg. Most groups arrive by car or coach, and the site has ample parking. The winery is open to the public Thursday through Sunday, and hours can change on days with private events.
